1. The Growing Problem
One of the reasons why psychological disorders in the elderly are more difficult to diagnose is that few people expect these issues. Instead, they may credit the isolation to aging or diminished social circles. The elderly fail to report these issues to health care providers and receive treatment from specialists in mental health care at far lower rates than the general public. Some disorders may appear to be common to aging, such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease, yet are not related to the aging process.
2. Depression in the Elderly
Psychologists estimate that 15 percent of elderly people are seriously depressed. Depression is the most common cause of inpatient hospitalization, yet it is often misdiagnosed in elderly patients. Social isolation, decreased activities of daily living and a sad or depressed mood are all common to depression regardless of a person's age. Recent studies indicate that the elderly patient responds just as well to antidepressant and behavioral therapy as a younger patient.
3. Psychotic Disorders
The most common type of psychosis in the elderly is paranoia and, in a few cases, schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is found in less than one percent of the elderly population and just over one percent in the general population. Most elderly adults who exhibit signs of paranoia often complain that they are being abused or taken advantage of by friends and family. There is also the fear of being placed in an institution or having their independence compromised. Hearing loss and decreased sensory abilities associated with normal aging may contribute to some of these issues. Both schizophrenia and paranoia can be treated through therapy and some medications and help should be sought immediately for the patient who is exhibiting these symptoms.
4. Substance and Alcohol Abuse
While it is rare for an elderly person to abuse illegal substances such as heroin or cocaine, substance and alcohol abuse are found in the elderly patient also. The abuse of prescription medications is common, especially since some patients have multiple doctors for a variety of ailments, resulting in over-prescribed drugs. Alcohol abuse may not abate when someone ages and may even be exacerbated by depression, the loss of friends of family or other mental health issues.
5. Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
Perhaps the most well-known psychological disorders in the elderly are dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Dementia in certain instances can be attributed to medical circumstances and may be reversible as in the case of vascular dementia. It is important to have a thorough medical exam to rule out physical causes of dementia. Alzheimer's disease is only one of many types of dementia, yet it is often the one most difficult to treat. There are medications that help slow the decline of patients with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, and care should be sought as soon as possible to determine if they may be of benefit.
